Fighting Back, You Are What You Eat, -and- Good Dog!

Fighting Back - woman, .357 blazing, chases intruders from home
You Are What You Eat - docs pull screws, nails from metal-eating man
Good Dog! - hero dog helps couple fight pirates of the Caribbean

On this day in history: July 14, 1881 - In the Sumner, New Mexico home of his friend Pete Maxwell, notorious outlaw Billy the Kid steps into a darkened bedroom and is shot dead by sheriff Pat Garrett. Billy's last words are "¿Quién es?" (Who is it?)

Born on this day in history: July 14, 1912 - Woody Guthrie (1912 - 1967) Born in Okemah, Oklahoma, folk musician and songwriter Woody Guthrie lived a hobo’s life until becoming a radio personality in Los Angeles in 1937. He wrote or adapted more than 1000 songs, including "This Land is Your Land" (1940). Guthrie spent his last years ravaged by Huntington's chorea.

Scripture of the Day: "If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land." - 2 Chronicles 7:14

Video of the Day: Time-lapse Road Trip in a Hybrid - Texas to Canada - submitted by Darin

Icebergs in the Antarctic area sometimes have stripes, formed by layers of snow that react to different conditions. Blue stripes are often created when a crevice in the ice sheet fills up with meltwater and freezes so quickly that no bubbles form. When an iceberg falls into the sea, a layer of salty seawater can freeze to the underside. If this is rich in algae, it can form a green stripe. Brown, black and yellow lines are caused by sediment, picked up when the ice sheet grinds downhill towards the sea. Click to enlarge.

The air quality has improved somewhat since last Friday. The temperatures have dropped a bit from the triple-digit heat wave of last week. Today is forecast to be a mere 99 degrees! The winds abated over the weekend, and this greatly reduced threats from wildfires in California.

While shopping at Sav-Mor Foods Friday afternoon, I encountered the largest white mushrooms I have ever seen! They were 3 - 4 inches in diameter! I purchased a quantity of them. For dinner yesterday, we made stuffed mushrooms and steamed green beans. I cleaned the giant mushrooms and carefully hollowed them so that they would accept a goodly quantity of stuffing. Laura mixed hot New York-style pork sausage, Tony Chachere's More Spice, Italian seasoning, ground black pepper, ground cumin, Italian bread crumbs, minced garlic, and shredded cheddar, jack, and pepperjack cheese. She stuffed the mushroom caps and refrigerated. I placed a package of green beans in a casserole dish, seasoned with Red Monkey lemon pepper seasoning, covered, and set aside. I made a marinade of extra-virgin olive oil, rice wine vinegar, ground cumin, ground ginger, garlic powder, fresh lime juice, honey, and Red Monkey mango habanero seasoning. I marinated Tyson boneless, skinless chicken breasts for six hours. I grilled the mushrooms and chicken for 45 minutes over indirect heat. I brushed the chicken with the marinade every 15 minutes. I sprayed the mushrooms with a mixture of 1 part extra-virgin olive oil and 3 parts balsamic vinegar every 15 minutes. When the mushrooms and chicken were nearly done, I steamed the green beans in the microwave oven for 5 minutes. The dinner was incredibly delicious. The mushrooms were so enormous that we each were able to eat only one share a second. A mushroom and some green beans will follow Laura to Chico this morning. Two mushrooms remain for a meal later in the week. The chicken will be used for a meal later in the week. Laura plucked a nibblet from one of the breasts and declared it delicious.

Slave Labor, Unholy Matrimony, -and- Slow Down!

Slave Labor - NY millionaire gets prison for abuse of housekeepers
Unholy Matrimony - bigamist "forgot" drunken 1978 marriage
Slow Down! - motorcyclist cited for driving 144 MPH

On this day in history: June 27, 1844 - Mormon leader Joseph Smith, along with his brother Hyrum, are shot and killed by a mob while in jail at Carthage, Illinois. According to church legend, after Smith is shot a man raises a knife to decapitate him, but is thwarted by a thunderbolt from heaven.

Born on this day in history: June 27, 1975 - Tobey Maguire (1975-) Born in Santa Monica, CA, actor Tobey Maguire spent years playing "sensitive young man" roles before hitting it big in the action adventure "Spiderman"(2002) and then "Seabiscuit" (2003).

Scripture of the Day: Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life? - Matthew 6:27

Video of the Day: Thermite Experiment

Here is one of Laura's photographs of the pork loins she so masterfully
barbecued last weekend. Click to enlarge.

The sky appears clearer this morning than it has been in many days. Blue sky is visible, and the smell of smoke from the fires is not as strong as it has been recently. Hopefully, these are signs that the fires that have been plaguing California are coming under control.

Fighting Back, New Sheriff in Town, -and- Slow Down

Fighting Back - armed customer foils bank robbery
New Sheriff in Town - Orange County to review concealed-weapon permits
Slow Down - speeders to pay extra for police fuel

On this day in history: June 19, 1999 - While taking a walk, horror author Stephen King is struck by a van piloted by a distracted Bryan Smith. King's extensive injuries (broken leg, broken hip, lacerated scalp and collapsed lung) remanded him to a hospital bed for three weeks. Smith would later die in his sleep on Stephen King's birthday.

Born on this day in history: June 19, 1962 - Paula Abdul (1962-) Born in Los Angeles, CA, dancer, singer and choreographer Paula Abdul began as an L.A. Lakers cheerleader and choreographer for Janet Jackson. She started recording in 1990, winning a Grammy. After dropping out of the limelight, Abdul re-emerged in 2002 as a judge on Fox’s popular "American Idol" series.

Scripture of the Day: Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body. - 1 Corinthians 6:19-20

Video of the Day: Can You Dance Like a 1st-grader? - submitted by Frank

I encountered this scene while passing Corning Lake on the way to my office
this morning. Click to enlarge.

For dinner last evening, we had a user-configured pizza—created from a Red Baron thin-crust pepperoni pizza. I sautéed sliced mushrooms, sliced red onion, and sliced Jalapeños. I sliced cluster tomatoes. I cut cooked bacon into 1-inch sections. Laura removed the pepperoni from the pizza. She spread the mushrooms, onion, and Jalapeño and seasoned with Tony Chachere's More Spice and garlic powder. She added the tomatoes and pepperoni. She covered the pizza with sliced Provolone cheese and scattered the bacon atop it. It was wonderful. Two sliced remained after dining and followed me to my office for breakfast this morning.

Laura documented the creation of the pizza photographically. Tomorrow, I shall feature images of the production of this delightful pizza.

Mutual Attraction, Outbreak!, -and- Fruit of the Vine

Mutual Attraction - girl swallows 30 magnets, steel balls
Outbreak! - antibacterial wipes can spread superbugs
Fruit of the Vine - new hints seen that red wine may slow aging

On this day in history: June 4, 1967 - The Emmy for best comedy TV series is won by "The Monkees."

Born on this day in history: June 4, 1975 - Angelina Jolie (1975– ) Born in Los Angeles, the daughter of movie star Jon Voight, actress Angelina Jolie began studying acting at age 11 at the Lee Strasberg Theater Institute. Her film roles have won awards and box office appeal, including "Gia"(1998), "Girl, Interrupted" (1999), "Lara Croft: Tomb Raider," and "Mr. and Mrs. Smith," with Brad Pitt (2005).

Scripture of the Day: Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord. - Ephesians 6:4

Video of the Day: Best Card Trick in the World - submitted by Amber

For dinner last evening, I made a sausage and penne dish: I simmered Johnsonville brats until approximately 75% cooked and set aside. I simmered six cluster tomatoes (cut into eight sections), a head of peeled garlic (whole), a large white onion (julienned), 3 medium Jalapeños (julienned), two small zucchini (cut into 1/4-inch sections), and four large white mushrooms (sliced thickly) in two ounces of Almaden Cabernet Sauvignon. I seasoned this with Tony Chachere's More Spice, ground black pepper, crushed red pepper, and Italian seasoning. After an hour, I sliced the brats into 1/2-inch sections and incorporated into the vegetables. I cooked a box of Barilla penne for 8 minutes and plunged quickly into cold water to stop the cooking process. 30 minutes later, Laura incorporated the penne into the sauce, and we allowed this to simmer for another 15 minutes before serving. At the table, we added crushed red peppers and DiGiorno shredded Parmesan cheese. It was delicious.

Johnny Mnemonic, I'm Researching a Part, -and- It's in His Kiss

Johnny Mnemonic - students soon will download lessons directly into brains
I'm Researching a Part - Tatum O'Neal busted for cocaine, crack
It's in His Kiss - teen DUI blames drunk boyfriend for her BAL

On this day in history: June 2, 1793 - Jean-Paul Marat recites names of 29 people to the French Assembly, virtually all of whom will be guillotined. Over the next year 17,000 will be executed in the Reign of Terror.

Born on this day in history: June2, 1972 - Wayne Brady (1972-) Born in Orlando, FL, comedian-actor Wayne Brady started at local clubs and Disney World and moved to Los Angeles in 1996. His break was on "Whose Line Is It Anyway?," ABC’s version of the British improv show. Brady went on to star in his own variety and daytime talk shows.

Scripture of the Day: Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. - Galatians 6:2

Video of the Day: Mecum Auction Presents - Lot # S115 1971 Plymouth Hemi Cuda - submitted by Cindy

Great Scott! Drunk again! Click to enlarge.

The weather was beautiful throughout the weekend. It was not as warm as it had been forecast to be, yet it was wam and without the wind that plagued us earlier in the week.

We had BLTs for dinner on Friday. We made them from toasted sourdough bread, bacon, sliced beefsteak tomatoes, sliced avocados, and baby spinach. They were delicious.

Saturday evening, I grilled New York strip steaks that I had marinated for four hours in extra-virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, Tony Chachere's More Spice, and ground black pepper. I also grilled large white mushrooms, Jalapeños, and red potatoes. It was a delicious meal. I grilled three steaks—planning the third to be used for Sunday brunch.

Sunday, we had Potatoes O'Brien, sunny-side-up fried eggs, and the New York strip steak from Saturday's dinner. This was a delightful brunch.

We had Cajun black beans and baby back ribs for dinner Sunday evening. Laura made a spicy dry rub (Tony Chachere's More Spice, garlic powder, ground black pepper, brown sugar, crushed red peppers, Gebhardt's chili powder, and dry Chinese mustard) and applied it to an enormous rack of baby back ribs. She barbecued them over indirect heat, bone-side down, without turning, for four hours—brushing every 20 minutes with a sauce I made from apple cider vinegar, Tony Chachere's Louisiana hot sauce, and garlic powder. I simmered sliced white onion, sliced Jalapeño peppers, diced Roma tomatoes, minced garlic, and minced garlic in extra-virgin olive oil. I seasoned this with Tony Chachere's More Spice, ground black pepper, Gebhardt's chili powder, and crushed red peppers. After simmering for an hour, I added a can of black beans, stirred, turned the heat to low, and allowed this to simmer for 30 minutes. It was a wonderful meal. We both declared the ribs were the best we had ever had! Leftovers await our dining pleasure on Wednesday evening, following Bible class.

Fighting Back, Going off the Deep End, -and- Bad Parenting

Fighting Back - homeowner shoots would-be burglar
Going off the Deep End - lifeguard mandated for 2-foot wading pool
Bad Parenting - baby put up for sale on Craigslist

On this day in history: May 28, 1998 - Talented comedian Phil Hartman dies at the hand of his crazy wife Brynne, who then commits suicide after the police arrive. Hartman's corpse is found in bed with multiple gunshot wounds to the head.

Born on this day in history: May 28, 1944 - Rudolph Giuliani (1944 - ) Born in New York City, former Mayor of New York Rudolph Giuliani (1993–2001) was U.S. attorney for the Southern District of New York (1983–9), before being elected New York mayor. Giuliani is best known for his leadership in the aftermath of the terrorist attack on New York on September 11, 2001. He was awarded an honorary knighthood by the UK in 2002.

Scripture of the Day: But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart. - Matthew 5:28

Video of the Day: Honda ASIMO Conducts The Detroit Symphony Orchestra - submitted by Amber

A family that lives on the outskirts of Anchorage, Alaska decided to build a sturdy, colorful playground for their 3- and 4-year-old sons. They lined the bottom with smooth-stone gravel all around to avoid knee scrapes and other injuries. They finished building it one Friday evening and were very pleased with the end product. The following morning, the mom was about to wake up the boys and have them go out to play in their new play center. This is what she saw from the upstairs window: Click to enlarge.

No storm! The thunderstorm that was forecast for yesterday did not materialize! Thank you, Lord, for the glorious day you gave us in place of the one predicted by man!

It appears that today will be a beautiful day. The sun is shining brightly, the sky is blue and clear, and the birds are singing merrily.

For dinner last evening, I made beef stir fry, with grilled top sirloin, sliced mushrooms, sliced red bell pepper, sliced garlic, sliced white onion, and sugar snap peas—stir-fried in extra-virgin olive oil and seasoned with Tony Chachere's More Spice, curry powder, crushed red pepper, cumin, and ground black pepper. To accompany this, I mad fried rice, with cooked Calrose rice, minced garlic, grated ginger, eggs, and baby peas—stir-fried in extra-virgin olive oil and seasoned with Tony Chachere's More Spice, curry powder, saffron, and crushed red peppers. It was a delightful meal.

I recorded the second half of "The Andromeda Strain." We shall watch it later in the week.

Animal Kingdom, Stupid Criminals, -and- The Fugitive

Animal Kingdom - dog survives 8 days trapped in rubble
Stupid Criminals - man steals T-shirts while girlfriend applies for job
The Fugitive - woman caught 32 years after prison escape

On this day in history: April 30, 1993 - During a quarterfinals match in Hamburg, deranged tennis fan Gunter Parche sneaks up on Monica Seles and stabs her in the back with a boning knife. Parche was just paving the way for Steffi Graf, whom he was actively stalking, to take the top ranking from Seles. His plan succeeds.

Born on this day in history: April 30, 1982 - Kirsten Dunst (1982-) Born in Point Pleasant, NJ, actress Kirsten Dunst began as a child actor and successfully transitioned into adult roles. She has already garnered over 40 film and TV credits, including films like "Interview with the Vampire," at age 11, and a string of Hollywood productions, including "Little Women" (1994) and "Spiderman" (2002), opposite Tobey Maguire.

Scripture of the Day: And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. - Ephesians 4:30-31

Video of the Day: Python versus Alligator

There was a gala wedding reception in the gazebo at Corning Lake last
Saturday. Click to enlarge.

The best man takes the wedding limo on a beer run. Click to enlarge.

Hillary versus Obama - the Game: Play Hillary versus Obama!

It is cold this morning! Mr. Nitro's exterior temperature display indicated it was 43 degrees at 6:30 AM this morning, as I drove to my office. It is forecast to be 72 degrees this afternoon—up two degrees from yesterday. The weatherpeople predict warmer temperatures for the weekend. Good!

For dinner last evening, we had grilled pork loin chops and dirty rice. I cooked a package of Tony Chachere's Dirty Rice in the rice maker. Laura dry-rubbed two huge bone-in pork loin chops with Tony Chachere's More Spice and ground black pepper. She grilled them perfectly—charred slightly on the outside and moist and tender on the inside. While grilling, she sprayed them with a mixture of one part extra-virgin olive oil and three parts balsamic vinegar. It was a delightful meal.

Stay, Here Comes the Bride, -and- Book Him Dano

Stay - doomsday sect won't leave cave
Here Comes the Bride - wedding night brawl lands couple in jail
Book Him Dano - man tasered after noodle-tossing at Taco Bell

On this day in history: April 29, 1992 - Rioting erupts in Los Angeles after Rodney King's assailants are acquitted by a jury. The looting and destruction begins in South Central L.A. and quickly radiates outward. By the time things are under control, 51 are dead and the city has sustained $1.5 billion in property damage. Civil disorder manages to spread to other North American cities, through the influence of live TV coverage.

Born on this day in history: April 29, 1957 - Daniel Day-Lewis (1957– ) Film actor, born in London, UK, the son of C Day-Lewis. He trained at the Bristol Old Vic and, after several small roles on stage and television, became well known for "My Beautiful Launderette" (1985) and "Room With A View" (1985). He won awards for his portrayal of handicapped Irish writer Christy Brown in "My Left Foot" (1989, Oscar, BAFTA).

Scripture of the Day: But if from there you seek the LORD your God, you will find him if you look for him with all your heart and with all your soul. - Deuteronomy 4:29

Video of the Day: World Record Huge Catfish - submitted by Darin

The Great Escape! Click to enlarge.

Pop Some Bubblewrap! Relieve some stress. Pop some bubblewrap!

Yesterday, it was warm. Although cooler—at a high of 84 degrees—than Sunday—which saw a high of 93 degrees—yesterday was the first day this year that I found it necessary to turn on the air conditioning here at my office. Today is forecast to be ten degrees cooler. Yikes!

For dinner last evening, I made fettuccine with marinara sauce. I simmered ground pork sausage, minced garlic, sliced white onion, sliced white mushrooms, and diced Roma tomatoes in Cabernet Sauvignon—seasoned with Tony Chachere's More Spice, ground black pepper, ground Cayenne pepper, sea salt, and Italian seasoning. This simmered for two hours. Laura stirred in a bottle of Classico basil and tomato marinara sauce and cooked a package of Barilla fettuccine until al denté. I sliced half a loaf of garlic bread, arranged on a pizza pan, and placed in the oven. Laura watched it and removed it when ready. At the table, we added DiGiorno shredded Parmesan cheese and crushed red peppers. It was a delicious meal. A quantity followed Laura to Chico for lunch, and a goodly amount remains for another dinner Thursday.

To Serve and Protect, The Kids Are Alright, -and- Ranch of Dark Shadows

To Serve and Protect - drunk cop asleep at wheel of patrol car
The Kids Are Alright - 11-year-old boy steered bus to avoid semi
Ranch of Dark Shadows - Texas cult accused of marrying pubescent girls

On this day in history: April 9, 1992 - Former Panamanian leader Manuel Noriega convicted of drug trafficking, money laundering, and racketeering by a federal court in Miami.

Born on this day in history: April 9, 1933 - Jean-Paul Belmondo (1933– ) Actor, born in Neuilly-sur-Seine, NC France. He studied at the Paris Conservatoire, took part in provincial tours, and appeared in several films, but it was the film "A Bout de Souffle" (1959, "Breathless") which made him famous. Later films include "Le Voleur" (1967, "The Thief"), "Hold Up" (1985), "Peut-Être" (1999, "Perhaps"), and "Amazone" (2000).

Scripture of the Day: Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me -- put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you. - Philippians 4:9

Video of the Day: McCain Girls: Raining McCain - submitted by Amber

I took the long way to my office this morning and encountered this scene!
Click to enlarge.

Warm weather is coming! Today is forecast to be 72 degrees; Thursday is forecast to be 81 degrees; Friday is forecast to be 83 degrees; and Saturday and Sunday are forecast to be in the high 80s! YES!

For dinner last evening, I employed the remains of a large beef roast and the attendant juices from Sunday's dinner. I shredded the roast and simmered for two hours with two heads of peeled garlic cloves, a large sliced white onion, two large sliced Jalapeño peppers, three stalks of sliced celery, four large sliced white mushrooms, three cups of baby spinach leaves, a can of beef consommé, a half cup of Almaden Cabernet Sauvignon, two cups of brown rice, Tony Chachere's More Spice, ground black pepper, sea salt, and ground cumin. It was delicious, and a great quantity remains for a future meal.

Cash or Charge?, Crime and Punishment, -and- I Spy

Cash or Charge? - doomsday cult says credit cards satanic
Crime and Punishment - hoax caller jailed for four years
I Spy - CIA enlists Google's help

On this day in history: April 1, 1996 - Wilson Pickett arrested for possession of cocaine, after a screaming, bloodied woman is seen running from his house.

Born on this day in history: April 1, 1932 - Debbie Reynolds (1932-) Born Mary Frances Reynolds in El Paso, TX, actress Debbie Reynolds gained notice in musical "The Daughter of Rosie O'Grady" (1950), and is best known for "Singin' in the Rain" (1952), opposite Gene Kelly. In 1964, she won an Oscar for "The Unsinkable Molly Brown." In later years, Reynolds has split her time among stage, screen and TV appearances.

Scripture of the Day: Answer me when I call to you, O my righteous God. Give me relief from my distress; be merciful to me and hear my prayer. - Psalm 4:1

Video of the Day: A Bad Cat Day - submitted by Laura

What a difference the wind makes! My first thought when exiting our home this morning was that it was significantly warmer than yesterday morning. I quickly realized that it merely appeared to be warmer, because there was no wind! The strong wind that has plagued us for many days has abated—hopefully, for a long while! The weather forecasts have changed: Rain had been predicted for Wednesday. Now, the forecast is for sunshine and temperatures in the low 70s. This sounds considerably better!

For dinner last evening, we had penne with Johnsonville hot Italian sausage. I cooked a box of Barilla penne until al dente, drained, and set aside. I sliced white onion, red bell pepper, eight white mushrooms, a head of peeled garlic, and grilled Johnsonville hot Italian sausage. Laura seasoned this with Tony Chachere's More Spice and ground black pepper and sautéed in extra-virgin olive oil. When this was cooked, she added the penne, turned the burner to medium-low, and stirred several times. At the table, we added crushed red peppers and DiGiorno Parmesan cheese. It was delightful. We enjoyed a nice bottle of Robert Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon.

The Sky Isn't Falling, The Kids Are Alright, -and- Don't Call

The Sky Isn't Falling - world doesn't end, doomsday cult gives up
The Kids Are Alright - 3-year-old girl can swim over 400 meters
Don't Call - cell phones more dangerous than smoking

On this day in history: March 31, 1889 - Eiffel Tower completed.

Born on this day in history: March 31, 1943 - Christopher Walken (1943– ) Born in New York City, actor Christopher Walken made his Broadway debut at 16. His first big film role was in "The Anderson Tapes" (1971), and he won an Oscar for "The Deer Hunter" (1978). With an ability to play both sinister and comic roles, Walken has appeared in an enormous range of roles.

Scripture of the Day: Do not envy a violent man or choose any of his ways, for the LORD detests a perverse man but takes the upright into his confidence. - Proverbs 3:31-32

Video of the Day: US Navy SEALS Combat Swim

The storm that was forecast for Friday did not materialize. It was a sunny, warm weekend—although the wind was fierce. Had it not been for the wind, the weather would have been ideal.

Saturday afternoon, we snacked upon garlic Triscuits and artichoke-Parmesan dip and played a rousing game of Scrabble. We then watched "Transformers" on our new HD video system. The special effects were staggering, and we thoroughly enjoyed the movie.

Saturday evening, we enjoyed a grilled London broil, grilled Jalapeños, and grilled red potatoes. Laura grilled Johnsonville hot Italian sausage, also. This will be used to produce a pasta dish later in the week. Grilling the sausage significantly enhances the flavor.

Sunday—following service at Harvest Christian Center, we had a delightful brunch: I dry-rubbed tri-tip steaks with Tony Chachere's More Spice and ground black pepper, sprayed with olive oil Pam, and grilled on the indoor grill. Laura made potatoes O'Brien and sunny-side-up fried eggs. At the table, we added Tony Chachere's Louisiana hot sauce and crushed red peppers.

Sunday evening, we enjoyed BLTs, made with toasted garlic-cheddar sourdough bread.

Fighting Back, Brave New Schools, -and- Somebody's Watching You

Fighting Back - 84-year-old ex-Marine thwarts robbery
Brave New Schools - teachers say principal threatened to kill them over poor test scores
Somebody's Watching You - spy drones in demand by U.S. police

On this day in history: March 28, 1979 - Three Mile Island nuclear accident, Harrisburg PA.

Born on this day in history: March 28, 1970 - Vince Vaughn (1970-) Born in Minneapolis, MN, actor Vince Vaughn landed the role of smooth-operating Trent in 1996's surprise hit "Swingers," which led to stardom in Steven Spielberg's "The Lost World: Jurassic Park."

Scripture of the Day: Look at the land with your own eyes, since you are not going to cross this Jordan. But commission Joshua, and encourage and strengthen him, for he will lead this people across and will cause them to inherit the land that you will see. - Deuteronomy 3:27b-28

Video of the Day: Duplex Cookie Board Games - submitted by Cindy

I spotted this bumper sticker on the way to my office this morning. Click to enlarge.

Rain? It is relatively cool this morning, but there is no sight of rain (yet). The weatherpeople predicted rain in great quantity today. It is dry now, and there is little wind. The sky appears clear, but this could easily change quickly.

Yesterday was a fast day on our food calendar. The fast ended at 7 PM. I made grilled chicken and black bean enchiladas. They were delicious. I sautéed sliced white onion, minced garlic, sliced Jalapeño peppers, and shredded grilled chicken breast in extra-virgin olive oil, seasoned with Tony Chachere's More Spice and Gebhardt's chili powder. I added a can of black beans. I spooned this mixture into flour tortillas, rolled, and placed in a large Pyrex baking dish that had been sprayed with olive oil Pam. I drizzled Tony Chachere's Cajun Garlic Sauce over the enchiladas and covered with sliced cheddar cheese. When it was time to dine, Laura baked the enchiladas in the microwave on reheat until the cheese melted. At the table, we added fresh salsa and crushed red peppers.

Weapons of Choice, Mommy Dearest, -and- Beep! Beep!

Weapons of Choice - court rules against San Francisco handgun ban
Mommy Dearest - woman sells teen son's car after finding booze
Beep! Beep! - Tata Nano, $2,500 car, unveiled in India

On this day in history: January 10, 1998 - German psychologist Heidi Fittkau-Garthe was charged in the Canary Islands with a plot of murder-suicide in which 31 cult followers, including five children, were to ingest poison. After the suicides they were to be picked up by spaceship for an unspecified destination.

Born on this day in history: January 10, 1945 - Rod Stewart (1945– ) Born in London, singer-songwriter Rod Stewart began as a soloist, then joined The Faces (1969-75). In 1971, he topped both UK and U.S. music charts with album, "Every Picture Tells a Story" and single "Maggie May." Stewart has gone on to numerous hits. His 1975 song "Sailing" has become the unofficial British Navy anthem.

Scripture of the Day: "My son, if sinners entice you, do not give in to them." - Proverbs 1:10

Video of the Day: The Death and Life of Ice Cream - submitted by Danica

Great Scott! It is Frankenhillary! Run for the hills! Click to enlarge.

Recommended Sites:
Nikon Photographer Forum - a free forum for photography enthusiasts
Corning California Message Board - a free message board for Corning
Olive Hut Blog - specials, olive news, recipes, and more

More rain! It is raining once again—albeit very gently. It began raining lightly as we left Bible class at Harvest Christian Center, and it appears (based upon the quantity of standing water) that it rained throughout the night. It is not particularly cold, however, there is almost no wind, and the rain is very light. There are still many thousands in the area without power, and the damage to buildings and trees was great during the recent storm. I pray that the rain continues to fall gently and that the 70+ MPH wind does not reappear!

For dinner last evening, we had the enchiladas and guacamole I described in yesterday's blog entry. It was a delicious meal. Leftovers from this delightful repast shall entertain us Friday evening. A quantity of enchiladas remains, but the guacamole was completely consumed. I shall make more guacamole. The local market (Sav-Mor Foods—a mere block from our house) is featuring beautiful, ripe avocados for $ .88 each. This is a great bargain, and I intend to take full advantage of it. Avocados are wonderfully nutritious and delicious!

No More Classes, Stupid Criminals, -and- Bad Hair Day

No More Classes - boy glues hand to bed to escape school
Stupid Criminals - man hiding knives in pants stabs self
Bad Hair Day - Texas students suspended for refusing haircuts

On this day in history: January 9, 2002 - The DOJ confirms reports that a criminal investigation of mega-corporation Enron has begun. The Texas energy profiteers gave loads of cash to the Republican party before accounting fraud and insider trading caused thousands of Enron employees to lose their savings and pensions.

Born on this day in history: January 9, 1913 - Richard (Milhous) Nixon (1913–94) Born in Yorba Linda, CA, 37th President Richard Nixon (1969–74) was Eisenhower's vice-president in 1952. After several political setbacks, he won the presidency in 1968, and was re-elected by a landslide in 1972. He was then brought down by the scandal known as "Watergate." Facing certain impeachment, in August 1974, Nixon became the first U.S. president to resign.

Scripture of the Day: "Since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you and asking God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all spiritual wisdom and understanding." - Colossians 1:9

Video of the Day: Le Cadeau du Temps – submitted by Cindy

Here is this morning's poll from World Net Daily. Click to enlarge.

Recommended Sites:
Nikon Photographer Forum - a free forum for photography enthusiasts
Corning California Message Board - a free message board for Corning
Olive Hut Blog - specials, olive news, recipes, and more

Dry Streets! The streets are dry this morning. While it sprinkled during the night, the heavy rains that plagued us yesterday appear to be gone, for now. The weather forecast is for clear weather for the next several days. More rain is certain to be on the way, but for now, at least, we can enjoy a break.

I produced beef enchiladas last evening. Laura had a large lunch and was not sufficiently hungry to properly enjoy the enchiladas, so we shall dine upon them following Bible class this evening.

I simmered a pound of Sierra Nevada ground beef, a large white onion (sliced very thin), three large Jalapeño peppers (diced), four tablespoons of minced garlic, a liberal shaking of Tony Chachere's More Spice Seasoning, two tablespoons of Gebhardt's Chili Powder, a tablespoon of ground black pepper, and a cup of red chili sauce for an hour. I set this aside to cool. When it had cooled sufficiently, I filled ten Mission flour tortillas with the mixture, rolled them, and placed them in a Pyrex baking dish that was first coated with red chili sauce. I covered the enchiladas with sauce and placed eight squares of sliced Colby-jack cheese atop them.

I made some guacamole to accompany the enchiladas. I am eager for them.

Can You Hear Me Now?, The Kids Are Alright, -and- White Wedding

Can You Hear Me Now? - new device allows you to "speak" through your ear
The Kids Are Alright - referee owes life to quick-thinking teen
White Wedding - bride to tie knot in toilet-paper dress

On this day in history: December 19, 1991 - Yankee's pitcher Steve Howe arrested for criminal possession of cocaine. It's merely one of NINE TIMES this has happened (and seven suspensions, plus one drunk-driving arrest.)

Born on this day in history: December 19, 1980 - Jake Gyllenhaal (1980-)
Born in Los Angeles, Jake Gyllenhaal has been acting since childhood, and got noticed in "The Good Girl" (2002). Gyllenhaal has also appeared on the London stage.

Scripture of the Day: "And you, my child, will be called a prophet of the Most High; for you will go on before the Lord to prepare the way for him, to give his people the knowledge of salvation through the forgiveness of their sins, because of the tender mercy of our God, by which the rising sun will come to us from heaven." (Luke 1:76-78)

Video of the Day: Louie Giglio - Universe

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Tony Chachere's: I used Tony Chachere's More Spice Seasoning for the first time last evening. I used it to season a rice dish and as a dry rub for some salmon fillets. When sprinkled onto my hand and tasted, the seasoning seemed very salty and very hot. When it is used as a seasoning, however, the heat and saltiness dissipate, and I found that it was easy to use without fear of over-seasoning.

I made a rice dish with 1 1/2 cups of brown rice, six large white mushrooms (quartered), two celery stalks (sliced), green beans (whole), a head of garlic (peeled, cloves left whole), two chicken bouillon cubes, four cups of water, and a liberal seasoning with Tony Chachere's More Spice Seasoning. I dry rubbed two lovely salmon fillets with Tony Chachere's More Spice Seasoning and grilled atop aluminum foil on the indoor grill—spraying the aluminum foil with cooking spray prior to placing the salmon, skin-side down, on the foil. I covered the grill with a tent made from aluminum foil and grilled, without turning, until the fillets were done. I toasted some garlic bread in the conventional oven. At the table, Laura used teriyaki sauce as a condiment for her salmon, and I used wasabi paste. It was a delightful meal.

Animal Kingdom, Just Say "No!," -and- Call Me!

Animal Kingdom - giant rat species found in Papua forest
Just Say "No!" - "gay" plans to target 2-year-olds
Call Me! - cell phone spending surpasses land lines

On this day in history: December 18, 1940 - Hitler formulates plans, issued today as Directive 21, for the invasion of Russia. The intent of Operation Barbarossa was to destroy the Red Army. Fighting on two fronts eventually caused Germany's defeat.

Born on this day in history: December 18, 1963 - Brad Pitt (1963-) Born in Shawnee, Oklahoma, actor Brad Pitt got noticed in a bit part in "Thelma and Louise" (1991). Stardom followed with later films, including "Interview with the Vampire," alongside Tom Cruise, and thriller, "Seven." Pitt's personal life has been widely publicized, including divorce from actress Jennifer Anniston and romance with actress Angelina Jolie.

Scripture of the Day: "Praise be to the Lord, the God of Israel, because he has come and has redeemed his people. He has raised up a horn of salvation for us in the house of his servant David (as he said through his holy prophets of long ago)," (Luke 1:68-70)

Video of the Day: Louie Giglio - Stars

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Today is a SHOE DAY! I rarely wear shoes. Throughout the warm months, I wear sandals. When it becomes uncomfortably cold, I wear thick, white cotton socks with my sandals. Today, however, it is raining! Large puddles dot the landscape, the rain that fell throughout the night continues, the sun is hiding, the wind is howling, and no birds are singing. It is, indeed, a SHOE DAY!

Tony Chachere's: Our order from Tony Chachere's Famous Creole Cuisine arrived yesterday. We got two 14-ounce containers of Tony Chachere's More Spice Seasoning and two large bottles of Tony Chachere's Cajun Power Garlic Sauce. I am eager to put these items to use. I have heard wonderful things about Tony Chachere's spices and sauces and will soon determine if all that I have heard is true. I shook some of the seasoning into my hand and found it delightfully spicy and tasty. I am eager to use it on some chicken, pork, or beef!